Exploring the Enchanting Blue City of Chefchaouen with Friends

A Dive into the Blue Heart of Morocco

Chefchaouen, they call it the Blue Pearl, and after just one day, I can already see why. Stepping into this city felt like entering a dream, a world painted in every imaginable shade of blue. It's a photographer's paradise, a cultural haven, and an adventurer's playground all rolled into one. Lena would have loved this place. I really miss her when I am traveling. But I am happy to experience this with my friends.

Our journey from Tangier was smooth, filled with scenic views of the Moroccan countryside. The drive itself was a great introduction to the landscapes that define this part of the world. The anticipation grew with every mile, and as we approached Chefchaouen, the first glimpses of blue rooftops against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains were simply breathtaking.

We checked into Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, a charming place that promised a comfortable stay. After settling in, we were eager to dive straight into the heart of the city: the Medina.


Discover the serene charm of Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, your perfect getaway in the heart of Chefchaouen, offering comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion.

The Chefchaouen Medina is unlike any other I’ve experienced. It’s a maze of narrow alleyways, each turn revealing a new, captivating scene. The buildings are washed in various shades of blue, from a soft sky blue to a deep indigo, creating a surreal and calming atmosphere. It felt like wandering through a living painting, with every corner offering a perfect photo opportunity. I made sure to bring my camera, one of the trip essentials, and started snapping away, trying to capture the essence of this unique place. Although I did forget my sunglasses and portable charger, I think I will be fine without them.


Discover the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen Medina, a historical gem in Morocco offering culture, crafts, and breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains.

Wandering through Chefchaouen's blue streets is like stepping into another world, where every corner tells a story.

Our first stop was Cafe Clock for breakfast. I had read great reviews about it and was eager to try their Moroccan take on breakfast. The cafe itself was cozy, with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the Medina. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast with mint tea, which was the perfect start to the day. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was just what we needed to soak in the city's vibe.


Discover the rich culinary heritage of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we continued our exploration of the Medina, getting lost in its labyrinthine streets. We stumbled upon artisan shops selling everything from handwoven blankets to leather goods and colorful pottery. I even found a small concept store called Blue. concept store, which had a fascinating collection of local crafts and contemporary designs. It was tempting to buy everything, but I restrained myself, knowing we had many more days of shopping ahead.


Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.

Next on our list was the Kasbah, a historic fortress located in the heart of the Medina. The Kasbah of Chefchaouen is an important historical monument in Morocco, which has been restored several times over the centuries. During its history, it has been used as a residence for governors, as a military arsenal and as a prison. Exploring the Kasbah gave us a glimpse into the city's rich history. The entrance fee was quite reasonable, and we spent a couple of hours wandering through its gardens and towers, enjoying panoramic views of Chefchaouen. The Kasbah has a vast covered terrace accessible by restored doors. A museum is located in the left wing of the Kasbah, and it displays elements of Moroccan heritage such as musical instruments, pottery, sculptures, embroideries, and weapons that would have been used to defend the fortress.


Discover the captivating Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that showcases Morocco's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.

For lunch, we chose Restaurant Bab Ssour, a place recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was tucked away in a small alley, adding to its charm. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tagine and couscous, and everything was bursting with flavor. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. Bab Ssour is a truly nice place for tourists. The food was very good, and the Moroccan flavors were easily enjoyed. I tried Baisara, lentil soup, and Moroccan mint tea. The goat tagine was tender and well-spiced.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Sofia. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and a menu with several vegan options. I opted for a vegetable tagine, which was delicious and satisfying. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Chefchaouen. It was quiet and away from the crowds. The staff were very caring and the food was delicious.


Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.

Before heading back to the Riad, we took one last stroll through the Medina, soaking in the magical atmosphere of the Blue City at night. The streets were quieter, but the blue hues seemed even more intense under the soft glow of the streetlights.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Ras El Ma, a nearby waterfall, and the City View Point for more stunning views of Chefchaouen. I’m also looking forward to experiencing the local nightlife at Bar Oum Rabie.

Chefchaouen has already captured my heart with its unique charm and beauty. I can't wait to see what the next few days have in store. The city has a calming and relaxing atmosphere. It is the perfect city for taking pictures. I will make sure not to wear blue tomorrow, so I don't blend in with the background.